Tony Bloom has declared he will be 'really disappointed' if Heart of Midlothian do not win the Scottish Premiership within the next decade. The chairman's statement sets a bold long-term ambition to disrupt the dominance of Celtic and Rangers, who have won every title since Aberdeen in 1985.

Bloom, who purchased a 29 per cent stake in the club in June 2025, acknowledged the pain of last season's near-miss. Heart of Midlothian led the league for 250 days but suffered a dramatic final-day defeat at Celtic Park, finishing two points behind the champions. "The way last season ended was exceptionally disappointing for the club and for me," Bloom said. He added that the club has had to accept the outcome, even if they are not happy about it.

Speaking to the media, Bloom elaborated on his vision.

Summer upheaval and quick recovery

The summer brought significant challenges, with captain Lawrence Shankland and midfielder Cammy Devlin both moving to Rangers. Head coach Wouter Vrancken's appointment also came just before pre-season. Bloom said it was a difficult period but praised the club's response. "We’ve started reasonably well, so again we’ve got to be hopeful and optimistic for the season to come," he stated. The team currently sits third in the Premiership with 16 points from eight games, showing a record of five wins, one draw, and two losses.

Bloom highlighted the club's activity in the transfer market as a reason for optimism. He believes this refresh, combined with the existing squad, provides a strong foundation. "I think there's a lot for the supporters to look forward to."

Current form and Celtic test

Heart of Midlothian' recent form reads three wins, one draw, and one defeat from their last five matches. They head into a key trip to Celtic Park this Sunday five points behind the league leaders. A strong performance at the home of the champions would send a powerful message about their credentials this season.

Bloom's investment and vision provide a foundation for this ambition. The immediate focus, however, is on continuing their solid start. The team's standings position is a platform, and maintaining it will be key to turning a decade-long ambition into reality. Heart of Midlothian travel to face Celtic on Sunday, 18 October, in their most significant test of the campaign so far.

This story first appeared at heraldscotland.com